FIFA Suspends Balogun’s One-Match Ban
UEFA has strongly criticised FIFA after the football body suspended Folarin Balogun’s one-match ban for one year. The decision allows the US forward to play in the World Cup last-16 match against Belgium in Seattle.
Balogun was expected to miss the match after receiving a straight red card during the United States’ round-of-32 win over Bosnia-Herzegovina. The red card was given after a video review showed him stepping on a defender’s foot. Under FIFA rules, a straight red card normally brings an automatic one-match suspension.
UEFA Calls Decision Unprecedented
In a strongly worded statement, UEFA said FIFA had “crossed a red line” by delaying the suspension. The European football body called the decision unprecedented, incomprehensible, and unjustifiable.
UEFA said football depends on clear rules, fair competition, and equal treatment. It argued that this case was not open to interpretation. The body warned that such decisions could damage trust in the game, especially during a World Cup.
Trump Intervention Adds to Controversy
The controversy grew after reports said US President Donald Trump contacted FIFA President Gianni Infantino and asked him to review Balogun’s punishment. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio also publicly called for the card to be withdrawn.
FIFA’s disciplinary committee later decided to suspend the ban for a year. The governing body did not give a specific explanation for the move. Trump welcomed the decision on Truth Social and thanked FIFA for reversing what he called a major injustice.
Belgium reacted with surprise. Coach Rudi Garcia mocked the ruling and questioned the timing of the decision. The controversy has now become a major talking point before the high-stakes World Cup knockout match.
